Mohammed Shami‘s decision to retire from Test cricket on November 6 has brought an end to a memorable chapter in Indian cricket. The veteran fast bowler chose a significant date to announce his retirement, marking exactly 13 years since his Test debut against the West Indies in 2013. He finished his red-ball career with 229 wickets in 64 matches, establishing himself as one of India’s most successful fast bowlers.

However, retirement from the longest format does not necessarily mean the end of Shami’s international journey. With the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching, the experienced pacer could still have an important role to play in India’s plans for the tournament.

Although Shami has not featured in an ODI since early 2025, his experience, exceptional bowling skills and previous performances in global tournaments make him a valuable option. His decision to step away from Test cricket could also allow him to concentrate on extending his white-ball career. Let’s have a look at some major reasons why Shami deserves serious consideration for India’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad.

3 reasons why Mohammed Shami should be picked in India squad for ODI World Cup 2027

1. Exceptional World Cup record makes him a proven match-winner

One of Shami’s biggest strengths is his outstanding record in the ICC ODI World Cup. The right-arm pacer has consistently delivered when India needed him most, particularly in high-pressure knockout encounters. With 55 wickets in just 18 World Cup matches, Shami holds an exceptional record in the tournament. His average of 13.52 and strike rate of 15.8 underline his ability to pick up wickets regularly while keeping opposition batters under pressure.

His performance during the 2023 ODI World Cup remains a perfect example of his importance to India’s bowling attack. Despite missing the initial matches, Shami finished the competition as the leading wicket-taker with 24 wickets in only seven appearances.

His seven-wicket haul against New Zealand in the semi-final was another reminder of his ability to deliver extraordinary performances on the biggest stage. India can certainly develop young fast bowlers for the future, but replacing the experience and composure Shami brings to a World Cup campaign will not be straightforward.

2. Test retirement could help him focus on white-ball cricket

Fitness has been one of the biggest challenges in Shami’s career over the last few years. Ankle surgery and subsequent knee-related problems kept him away from international cricket for an extended period. Retiring from Test cricket could provide the veteran pacer with an opportunity to manage his workload more effectively. Instead of preparing for the physical demands of five-day matches, he can concentrate on shorter formats and maintain his bowling rhythm through limited-overs competitions.

His participation in domestic white-ball tournaments and the IPL could become important in determining his readiness for the 2027 World Cup.

Regular appearances in these competitions would allow Shami to demonstrate his fitness, consistency and ability to perform in pressure situations without having to manage the demands of international Test cricket.

Also READ: Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami retires from Test cricket

3. Experience could outweigh age in India’s World Cup plans

Shami will turn 37 by the time the 2027 ODI World Cup gets underway. Although age could become a consideration for the selectors, it should not automatically rule him out of contention. Modern-day fast bowling is not entirely dependent on physical strength or pace. Experience, variations, control and an understanding of different match situations are equally important, particularly in major tournaments.

Veteran pacers such as Mitchell Starc have demonstrated how experienced fast bowlers can continue making significant contributions at the highest level.

Shami possesses the ability to generate movement with the new ball and make effective use of reverse swing during the later stages of an innings. These qualities could be particularly useful in the conditions expected in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Also READ: Fans get emotional as Mohammed Shami announces retirement from Test cricket after 13-year career

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